Nothing beats fall. It is quite possibly the best season in the Midwest and these friendly family fall activities will highlight all that is perfect in autumn.

Have I mentioned how much I love the fall? It's when I can switch from an iced drink to a hot drink, where pumpkin spiced everything floods the store shelves, hooded sweatshirts and chunky sweaters come to the front of my closet and the leaves start to change colors providing the perfect backdrop.

It's the greatest season of all.

Fall in The Forest City is even better than anywhere else! We didn't get the name Forest City for NOT having any trees around, now did we? Fall is the perfect time to get out and see how beautiful our city, and surrounding cities, are.

Grab the kids, toss on your boots and let's have some fun this fall! Why not try one of these activities this fall!

Enjoy viewing an eclectic, unique collection of public art while getting the benefits of refreshing outdoor exercise by taking a free public art walking tour.

  • Thursday, September 8 or 15
  • Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens

The Roscoe Lions Club hosts the village's annual Fall Festival, featuring amusement rides, live music, parades and a raffles. All proceeds from the raffle will go toward supporting the Lions Club.

  • September 9-11
  • Leland Park

Enjoy the end of summer with family or a group outside by collecting seeds from native wildflowers and grasses during Natural Land Institute’s Fall Prairie Harvest Day at Nygren Wetland Preserve.

  • September 10
  • Nygren Wetland Preserve

Did you ever want to see what a real paranormal investigation is all about? This is your chance to find out! This exciting event will let you be the paranormal investigator! Guests will be in small groups as you join the staff in the most active locations in Cottage.

  • September 16
  • Tinker Swiss Cottage Museum and Gardens

Attention all night owls! Learn about the creatures of the night as we hike through the darkness looking for signs of life. Start the night off with a scavenger hunt, and end it with a bird of prey show!

  • September 17
  • Atwood Center

The German Society of Rockford is hosting the 52nd annual Oktoberfest celebration, featuring fun activities and entertainment for the entire family.

  • September 23-24
  • Loves Park City Hall

Come experience Rockford's Dark History! Climb aboard our luxury bus (Yes! There is a bathroom on board!) and listen as Local Historian and Author, Kathi Kresol shares researched and documented stories including ghastly crimes, suicides and ghostly encounters.

  • September 30
  • Veterans Memorial Hall

The Salvation Army Rockford Temple is hosting a Fall Craft & Vendor show with 25+ crafters and vendors, along with food and silent auction items donated by each vendor. All proceeds of the silent auction will go towards The Salvation Army World Services, which provides assistance around the world to needy communities.

  • October 1
  • The Salvation Army Rockford Temple

Cider n’ Cinnamon has been a Rockford art & craft tradition for over 40 years! Join us for this free art and craft event held at Edgebrook annually. Vendors will be displaying a variety of art, jewelry, crafts, clothing, vintage décor, and so much more. Enjoy delicious food and live music both days.

  • October 1-2
  • Edgebrook

Grab the kids, put on your jacket and come on down to Klehm Arboretum for a memory filled day of free outdoor activities. The crisp fall air and beautiful autumn foliage is sure to put you in the mood for horse drawn wagon rides, scarecrow building and other fun activities for kids of all ages.

  • October 2
  • Klehm Arboretum and Botanic Garden

The Rockford Area Arts Council presents the 29th Annual Fall ArtScene showcasing original works of art at 40 different locations across the Rockford and the Rockford metro area. This is a great opportunity to purchase artwork!

  • October 7-8
  • Rockford Region

Families of all ages can visit for fall harvest fun at Midway Village Museum!

  • October 8
  • Midway Village Museum

There are so many fantstic activities to take part in the entire fall season! Visit GoRockford.com for more information and events taking place!

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